Sensors
Position sensor AB Elektronik has developed a new noncontact Hall-effect sensor that uses a programmable ASIC control chip to provide chassis height and position information for dynamic headlight-level adjustment systems. The sensors were specifically designed for use in vehicles equipped with high-intensity discharge headlamps that produce twice the illumination of conventional tungsten bulbs, often blinding the drivers of oncoming vehicles. The headlight-level adjustment system continually monitors the height and angle of the vehicle and adjusts the headlight aim to compensate for changes in the altitude of the vehicle due to road conditions, or passenger and luggage loads. The electronic functions of the sensor are integrated into the ASIC, enabling the output signal to be programmed via a sensor interface. The sensor reads the changes in the magnetic field around a ferrous impulse wheel attached to the shaft to determine position. The rotational angle can be programmed to any value between ±15° and ±60°. The sensors are rated for operating temperatures from -40° to +130°C.
CTS Corporation has developed an automotive-grade occupancy weight sensor for use with intelligent airbag control systems. The signal output from the sensors provides linear representation of weight and position. Standard controllers interpret the signal to indicate the occupant's weight and position, which is then used in various airbag activation scenarios. They are manufactured out of steel substrates, which assist the signal's linear electrical output and allow measurement of a wide range of weights and positions. The signals are stable over variations in temperature, moisture, and vibration. The sensors can be incorporated into current seat structure manufacturing with only minor changes to seat structures. Pressure sensor The monolithic fuel tank pressure sensor from Honeywell's Micro Switch Division detects fuel leaks as small as 0.5 mm (0.02 in.) in diameter. The temperature-compensated sensor withstands extended exposure to a variety of conditions. It has a temperature storage rating of -40° to +125°C for 1000 hours, a high humidity storage at 85% RH for 1000 hours, and a thermal shock rating of -40° to +125°C for 1000 cycles. It includes a single integrated circuit with a micromachined silicon diaphragm containing piezoresistors. The sensor incorporates a built-in connector, mounting flange or bracket, and is immune to typical levels of such transients as EMI, RFI, and ESD. Flexible mounting positions include the side or top of a fuel tank or in an under-body location adjacent to the fuel tank. Operating temperature is -30° to +100°C. It meets OBD II requirements. Power MOSFETs International Rectifier has developed a line of low voltage HEXFET power MOSFETs that eliminate the compromise between RDS(on) and ruggedness against transients and other fault conditions. They are usable in sensors that are targeted for high-end automotive applications such as braking systems, power steering, and integrated starter/alternators. The new devices have over 100% more silicon in the same footprint than their predecessors, resulting in an RDS(on) more than 25% lower and a usable current of nearly 50% greater. They have an avalanche rating in the range of 2000 mJ. In most cases, designers can eliminate the external passive devices that traditionally protected power MOSFETs. They are qualified to Q101 guidelines at up to 175°C. Temperature measurement sensor International Resistive Co., Inc. has introduced the PTS 1206 Series surface-mount chip version of their platinum film resistive temperature sensors for automotive applications. The chips feature resistance values of 100( with a tolerance of ±0.5%. They have a temperature coefficient of resistance of +3750 ±100ppm/°C and are rated for operation from -50° to +125°C. The platinum film sensing element exhibits a typical long-term stability of 0.1% and a response time in still air of 2.2 seconds.
Wabash Technologies' Hall-effect noncontact rotary sensor has an accuracy of 2.5%, a temperature range of up to 120°C, and an operating temperature of -40° to +150°C. The sensor can be used in stand-alone and integration applications. It is designed to accommodate custom mounting on the drive face with either a zero tolerance D-drive or spring-loaded blade, and electrical connector or cabling options on the opposite side. It also features external programmability for on-line calibration. Applications include throttle position, transmission shift position, suspension height, rotary EGR valve position, air intake manifold bypass control damper position, and more.
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